What Does ‘Time Sensitive’ Mean on Snapchat? Everything You Need to Know

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Well, it is not something new, but many users still don’t know what it is and how it works. Often, people see the “Time Sensitive” label on their screen and start wondering:

“Is this urgent?”
“Am I missing something important?”

If you have seen this on your iPhone and felt confused, you are in the right place. I will explain what it means, why Snapchat does this and how you can control it.

Fun Fact: According to Statista, Snapchat has 460 million people using it every day worldwide. This means the Time Sensitive feature could affect a huge number of users.

What Is a Time Sensitive Notification?

Before we start, here is an important thing you should know.

Time Sensitive is an Apple iOS feature. It is not something Snapchat created. Snapchat only uses this option for some alerts.

Apple introduced it in September 2021 with iOS 15, and Snapchat added support for it in May 2023 on devices running iOS 15 or later.

These alerts can break through Focus Mode or Do Not Disturb. If something is important and time-bound, your iPhone will show it right away instead of delaying it.

Guess What?

Other apps also use this feature. Examples include Find My, Uber, and Lyft.
This is how a “Time Sensitive” notification looks on an iPhone.

Here is how it differs from a normal notification:

• Normal notifications wait until you check your phone.
• Time Sensitive notifications appear instantly, even if your phone is in Focus Mode or using Scheduled Summary.
• They stay on your Lock Screen for up to an hour unless you clear them.

Snapchat uses this feature to make sure you do not miss certain alerts. That is why you might see “Time Sensitive” under the app name in a notification.

Quick Fact: Snapchat now has more than 900 million monthly active users. This makes it one of the largest social platforms in the world.

Why Does Snapchat Mark Some Notifications as Time Sensitive?

Snapchat is built around the present moment. Stories vanish in 24 hours and Snaps expire after you view them. Streaks reset if you miss a day. All because it focuses a lot on timing. Snapchat has not officially shared what triggers the label. But based on observation and user reports,

Here are some likely reasons:

1. To save streaks: If you have a long Snapstreak, Snapchat will remind you when you are close to losing it. Marking it as Time Sensitive makes sure you see the alert even if you are busy.
2. To highlight expiring messages or snaps: A friend may send you a Snap that will disappear soon. This tag helps you open it before it is gone.
3. To bring you back for story updates: A close friend or someone you interact with often might post a Story. If Snapchat thinks it is worth your attention, it may label it as Time Sensitive.
4. Snapchat Plus BFFs and planets: Some users say that pinning a friend as a BFF in Snapchat Plus or interacting in the Friend Solar System can trigger these alerts.
5. Quick engagement: Snapchat also uses this to bring you back into the app. The label adds urgency and makes you more likely to tap.

Note: Some people get Time Sensitive labels for normal messages. This may be an iOS glitch and not a choice by Snapchat.

Even with correct settings, notifications can still act unpredictably. Take a look at what a user said on Apple’s Support Community.

“Time sensitive notifications are blocked in ‘Work Focus’ mode, but they’re still getting through… I’ve allowed only a couple of apps, but notifications from Snapchat … are still getting through even though time sensitive notifications are turned off.”

Interesting Fact: Snapchat users send more than 3.4 billion Snaps every day. This shows how much content is shared and why a single notification, like Time Sensitive, can be important.

How Do Time Sensitive Notifications Work on Snapchat?

Apple’s iOS rules are responsible for the Time Sensitive notification you receive from Snapchat.

Here is how it works.

• Bypasses Focus Mode: It shows up even if you use Sleep, Work, or Do Not Disturb mode.
• Bypasses Scheduled Summary: It appears instantly even if you group notifications and set them for delivery at specific times.
• Remains on Lock Screen: It stays pinned for up to an hour, so you notice it.
• Uses iOS Priority: It ranks higher than other app notifications during quiet times.

What About the Time Sensitive Notification on Android?

On Android, Snapchat does not use the “Time Sensitive” label. Instead, it can mark notifications as high priority. This pushes them to the top of your notification list and sometimes lets them cross battery or background limits.

How to Manage or Turn Off Time Sensitive Notifications on Snapchat

If you find these alerts helpful, keep them on. If they feel intrusive or you do not want Snapchat interrupting your downtime, turn them off in a few steps.

On iPhone or iPad

Sometimes iOS gives you an on-the-spot option to turn off Time Sensitive for Snapchat when a notification arrives. You can do it then or change the setting manually:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Notifications.
3. Select Snapchat.
4. Toggle Time Sensitive Notifications off.
   

This stops Snapchat from marking any alerts as Time Sensitive. You will still get regular notifications, but they will not break through Focus or Do Not Disturb.

On Android

Android does not use the exact “Time Sensitive” label, but you can control high-priority alerts. Follow these steps — here I am using a Google Pixel 7a, so some other Android settings may differ depending on the UI.

1. Open Settings on your Android.
2. Go to Apps.
3. Select Snapchat.
4. Tap Notifications.
5. Adjust the notification settings as you prefer.
   

Remember: Menu names may vary depending on your phone’s brand and software version.

Extra Notification Controls Inside Snapchat

If you want more control:

1. Open Snapchat on your phone.
2. Tap your profile icon in the top-left corner of the screen.
3. Go to Settings by tapping the gear icon in the top-right corner.
4. Select Notifications.
5. Turn notifications on or off for specific actions, such as Snaps, mentions, Stories, Trending Public Content, or Friend Suggestions.
6. Choose whether to show Bitmojis in notifications.
   

Pros and Cons of Time Sensitive Notifications on Snapchat

Before you decide to keep them on or turn them off, look at the benefits and drawbacks.

Pros

• You never miss important snaps or streak alerts.
• You stay updated on time-limited content.
• They can break through silent modes when you need them.

Cons

• The notifications can distract you when you want to focus.
• They might even interrupt your sleep if you forget to silence them.
• They are not always urgent and may be used just to boost engagement.

Tips for Using Time Sensitive Notifications Wisely

Follow these tips to get the most out of the feature:

• Keep it on for close friends or work-related chats only.
• Turn it off when you are on vacation or taking a break.
• Use Focus Mode exceptions to allow only essential apps.

Final Thoughts: Managing Time Sensitive Notifications on Snapchat

The Time Sensitive label on Snapchat is an Apple feature that Snapchat chooses to use. It makes sure certain alerts get your attention. Most of the time, it is for content that expires soon, like streaks, snaps, or stories.

You can decide whether you want it on or off. If you like staying on track, you may find it useful. If you find it distracting, you can turn it off in your settings.

In case you missed:

• What Does the Green Dot on Snapchat Mean? (And How to Turn It Off)
• What Does SFS Mean on Snapchat? (Full Guide for 2025)
• How to See Someone’s Snapchat Best Friends List
• Snapchat Planets in Order: What Each Planet Means in Friend Solar System

Iram Shaikh

Iram is a tech writer at TechNerdiness.com, where she breaks down gadgets, software, and tech trends into simple, easy-to-understand insights. Known for her clear and approachable style, she helps readers make sense of the latest innovations without the jargon. When she’s not writing, Iram can be found experimenting with new tools, refining workflows, and exploring futuristic tech ideas that spark curiosity.

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